Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting locally made products to boost Nigeria’s economy and self-reliance. At the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Annual General Meeting in Lagos, themed “Nigeria First: Patronizing Made-in-Nigeria Products,” Otu’s deputy, Dr. Peter Odey, emphasized the importance of prioritizing local products for national prosperity.
The policy aligns with the administration’s People First mantra, which aims to strengthen the economy through local production and consumption. Dr. Odey highlighted Cross River’s industrial and agricultural advancements, including cocoa plantations, rice fields, and oil palm sectors. The state government has also adopted a local motor manufacturing firm to supply vehicles for official use and has taken delivery of over 100 locally made mini-tractors for farmers.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan-Enoh, announced plans to make it mandatory for public institutions to prioritize Made-in-Nigeria products in procurement processes. By December 2025, the Ministry will issue new guidelines requiring justification for choosing imported goods over certified local alternatives. The President emphasized that the Nigeria First policy is a disciplined approach to spending, procurement, and competition.
MAN President, Otunba Francis Meshioye, commended the Tinubu administration for setting up the Industrial Revolution Working Group (IRWG), which is crucial to implementing Nigeria’s industrial policy. He also lauded Cross River State for initiating steps to legislate the Nigeria First policy at the state level. The AGM acknowledged and awarded Cross River as one of the states that emphasizes local content.
The renewed push for the Made-in-Nigeria policy implementation is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy. By promoting local products, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on imported goods and create jobs and opportunities for its citizens. The policy is a step towards achieving economic liberation and self-reliance, and its successful implementation will depend on the collective efforts of the government, manufacturers, and consumers. As the country moves forward with the Nigeria First policy, it is likely to experience growth and development in various sectors, ultimately contributing to its economic prosperity.